Product Development Manager

$90,000 - $90,000/Yr

Church Brothers Farms - Salinas, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Salinas, CA

Support Activities for Agriculture and Forestry

About the position

The Product Development Manager at Church Brothers Farms is responsible for leading the creation and launch of innovative fresh produce products that align with market trends and consumer preferences. This role involves strategic leadership in sourcing, processing, marketing, and distribution, while collaborating across various departments to manage the full product development lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Drive innovation and quality in the private and exclusive brand categories, developing a comprehensive product strategy that aligns with company goals and market trends.
• Conduct in-depth market analysis to identify consumer needs, preferences, and emerging trends in the produce sector.
• Work closely with R&D, sales, marketing, and operations to ensure smooth product development and launches.
• Lead the product development lifecycle, from ideation through launch, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
• Ensure all new products meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Integrate sustainable practices, ingredients, and packaging into product development to meet consumer demand for eco-friendly options.
• Track product performance post-launch, gathering feedback and insights to guide future enhancements.
• Communicate product vision and updates to internal stakeholders and external partners, including suppliers and retailers.
• Manage supplier relationships to maintain high quality and cost control.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience of 5 - 7 years of experience managing new product development in the value-added salad and fresh vegetable industry.
• In-depth knowledge of product development and commercialization processes, including R&D procedures.
• Strong project management skills.
• Experience collaborating with large national retailers, such as Walmart, Kroger, Albertsons, Sam's Club, etc.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Team-oriented with the ability to work independently.
• Ambitious self-starter with exceptional problem-solving skills.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Benefits

• Competitive bonus program